Adopt or sponsor an unusual animal like a tapir

If you are looking for an unusual animal to sponsor or adopt, then a Tapir could be just what you are looking for.

The Malayan tapir, like all tapirs, is very much in danger of extinction[4]. Their closest relatives are the rhino or the horse. They have few natural predators because they are so large, but human activities, such as deforestation and planned flooding for hydroelectric projects are the main cause of their decline. They are also traded illegally and are often worth up to US$55,000.

It has never been more important to protect the Malayan Tapir, so why not do so today through the Aspinall Foundation? It can be done quickly and easily online[5].

You could sponsor Lidana, for example, who was the first tapir to be born at Port Lympne, one of the Aspinall Foundation's reserve parks.

She is a wonderful mother tapir, who will fiercely protect her young if they are in danger, but trusting enough to let the gamekeepers play with them. Lidana recently gave birth to Tengui, a female calf in February 2006. Both mother and daughter are healthy and thriving.

The Foundation is dedicated to nurturing and protecting endangered species of animals from all over the world. Their website[5] offers you the opportunity to contribute to the welfare of 19 species that desperately need protection. Through its animal adoption and sponsorship scheme, the Aspinall Foundation returns endangered animals, including Tapirs, to safe, natural habitats. Adopt or sponsor an animal today, and help them do their vital work.

Adopting an animal in this way is also a creative and worthwhile ethical gift for family or friends whether it be for Christmas, a birthday or even as a creative wedding gift.

The Aspinall Foundation's[5] two parkland reserves provide homes for over 1000 wild animals, all of which can be adopted or sponsored. Unlike some adoption schemes, you can go and visit your sponsored animal anytime.

For just £3 per month you can adopt Lidana the Malayan tapir. You will then get a special fact sheet, an adoption certificate and a monthly newsletter keeping you up to date with how she is doing. You will also get a free pass to visit her.

There are also levels of adoption. For £6 per month you can become a tapir's defender, which will give you all the benefits of adoption plus a free annual pass too. For £12 a month you can become her protector and get two free annual passes, and for £41 per month you can become her guardian. This is an adoption gift that entitles the recipient to a special adoption package – including the chance to be her keeper for the day.